"Binding regulations for the care of the city territory and maintenance of buildings provide for the clearing of sidewalks and yard paths of snow and ice and the spreading of non-slip materials. Cleaning works should be performed every day by 08:00, ensuring safe movement of pedestrians. Under conditions of increased snow and icing, snowdrifts and ice formation must be prevented," instructs Rīga City Council.
Persons failing to get shifting with the shovel in a timely manner risk administrative penalties running up to a maximum penalty for individuals of 350 euros, and for legal entities such as businesses of 1,400 euros.
In the event that residents suffer injury due to uncleaned sidewalks or house roofs, they can take civil action against the owner or operator. The accident must be reported immediately to the municipal police or the Administrative Inspectorate. Protocols drawn up by these bodies can serve as a basis for compensation.
The Riga City Council Administrative Inspectorate has been instructed to intensify control of icing and snow removal. From December 2020 to January 11, 2021, the Administrative Inspectorate has already drawn up 31 inspection reports on the detected administrative violations.
Similar rules are in place in other towns and cities across Latvia.